If you’re anything like me, you can never have too many fun and delicious finger foods in your recipe repertoire. Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked) are a fantastic way to combine two beloved classics into one irresistible bite. Picture this: a crispy, golden crust filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual dinner party, or just want to impress the kids, these rolls are sure to be a hit. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Taco Pizza Rolls are not just another appetizer; they embody the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. The savory spiced beef mingling with melted cheese and fresh toppings creates an explosion of taste that never fails to delight. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can customize them to your liking with various toppings and sauces, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether smoked or oven-baked, they deliver a crispy exterior and a delicious interior that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredient Notes
To prepare Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked), gather the following ingredients:
- __ lb ground beef – This will be the star protein of our rolls. Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- __ cup diced onion – Adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 can Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust – The base for our rolls, lending a flaky and crispy texture.
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning mix – Provides the essential taco flavor; you can also make your own blend if you prefer!
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese or Mexican blend, shredded – For that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- __ cup sour cream – To serve on the side for dipping.
- __ cup guacamole – A creamy accompaniment that complements the flavors perfectly.
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced – Freshness in every bite!
- __ cup lettuce, shredded – Adds crunch and color.
- __ cup onion, diced – For an extra kick of flavor.
- __ cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Equipment & Tools
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Skillet – For cooking the beef and onions.
- Baking sheet or smoker – Depending on your cooking method.
- Parchment paper – To keep the rolls from sticking.
- Rolling pin – Helpful for rolling out the pizza crust.
- Sharp knife – For cutting the rolls into bite-sized pieces.
- Serving platter – To present your Taco Pizza Rolls in style.
Cook Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked) Like This
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Stir in the taco seasoning mix, ensuring the beef and onions are well-coated. If desired, you can add a splash of water to help the seasoning blend. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Crust
Unroll the Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently stretch it out to your preferred thickness—about ¼ inch is ideal.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spread the beef mixture evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a little space at the edges. Sprinkle the shredded cheese atop the beef mixture, then roll the crust tightly from one end to the other.
Step 5: Slice and Prepare for Cooking
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pizza into 1-inch pieces. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up. If smoking, place them on the smoker rack.
Step 6: Cook the Rolls
For oven-baked rolls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. For smoked rolls, heat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and smoke for about 30-40 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare the Toppings
While the rolls are cooking, prepare your toppings. Dice the Roma tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and mix any additional garnishes you’d like.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Taco Pizza Rolls are golden and delicious, remove them from the oven or smoker. Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, and your favorite toppings, like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and extra cheese.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
Elevate your Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked) for special occasions with these festive ideas:
- For Halloween, shape the rolls into spooky figures and serve with a side of “blood” (red salsa).
- During the holidays, incorporate seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the taco seasoning for a unique twist.
- For a summer barbecue, serve the rolls with a refreshing corn salsa.
- For game day, arrange the rolls on a football-themed platter, complete with jalapeño poppers and other finger foods.
What Could Go Wrong
While these Taco Pizza Rolls are relatively easy to make, a few things can go awry:
- Overcooking the beef can lead to a dry filling. Keep an eye on it, and aim for a juicy texture.
- Rolling the crust too tightly can cause the filling to leak out during cooking. Be gentle when rolling.
- Underbaking the rolls may result in a doughy texture. Ensure they are golden brown for the perfect crunch.
- Not allowing the rolls to cool slightly before serving can lead to burns from hot cheese!
Storage Pro Tips
If you find yourself with leftover Taco Pizza Rolls, don’t worry! Here’s how to store them properly:
Allow the rolls to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of meat for these rolls?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure they’re cooked through and seasoned well.
What can I serve with Taco Pizza Rolls?
These rolls pair perfectly with Taco Skillet Dinner, a fresh salad, or even a side of chips and salsa for a complete meal.
Can I make these rolls vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I make these rolls spicier?
For added heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
If you enjoyed these Taco Pizza Rolls, you might also love these healthy-ish recipes:
In Closing
With their irresistible flavor and delightful crunch, Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked) are a must-try for any taco enthusiast. Whether you choose to smoke them for an added depth of flavor or opt for the classic oven-baked method, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to customize your toppings and serve them with your favorite dips for a fun and interactive meal. Happy cooking!
Taco Pizza Rolls (Smoked or Oven-Baked)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix, ensuring the beef and onions are well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Unroll the Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently stretch it out to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a little space at the edges. Sprinkle the shredded cheese atop the beef mixture, then roll the crust tightly from one end to the other.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pizza into 1-inch pieces. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- For oven-baked rolls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. For smoked rolls, heat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and smoke for about 30-40 minutes.
- While the rolls are cooking, prepare your toppings. Dice the Roma tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and mix any additional garnishes you’d like.
- Once the Taco Pizza Rolls are golden and delicious, remove them from the oven or smoker. Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, and your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
